What is biorefining?

Making Chemicals

Depending on how the biomass is broken down, it can yield component sugars or hydrogen and carbon monoxide. What these yields lack in volume they make up for in value, producing toothpaste gel, antifreeze, plastic, glues, artificial sweeteners, photographic films, synthetic fabrics and more.

Biofuels -- the word seems magical. It brings to mind singing birds, clear blue skies and global happiness. Somehow, we can turn plants and other organic material into something to power our cars and save the planet at the same time.